According to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, scientists think in the next few years they will have a blood test for predicting Alzheimer’s that is almost 90% accurate. Some bioethicists claim this information could be devastating for individuals and family and color all dimensions of life with a dark crayon.
However, both the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation say early diagnosis gives individuals a chance to change lifestyles – the heart-healthy diet, exercise, social and cognitive stimulation can preserve function. Also, there are some medications, when started early, that boost functioning.
Early diagnosis could allow individuals to be more pro-active with planning for the future especially if care is needed. Families could also be pro-active in planning for home modifications, legal and financial documents to support the long journey if your lifestyle changes could not change the course of this information.
It is a choice many of us will have in the near future. If you have had grandparents or parents with an “Alzheimer’s” diagnosis you might want to change your lifestyle slightly – a heart healthy plan is not going to hurt the majority of us. But, always consult your physician before making major changes.
Enjoy that orange and pass on the diet soda and chips! Research gives us more and more permission to have a little “chocolate” for heart and brain – so you still get to splurge for health.